4BR has been informed of the death of Yori Gowing, a long time stalwart and life member of the Ynyshir Band, who passed away on Wednesday 29th January.

Love

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Yori started his banding as a teenager alongside his brothers in the Mid Rhondda Band, but it was when his son Robert joined Ynyshir that his love for brass banding in general was rekindled.

His excellent administrative skills came to the fore, firstly as a committee member, then Secretary and finally Chairman, as well as his role as librarian which he continued to oversee until recently whilst he trained his successor to look after his library in the correct way."

Respected

A highly respected organiser and supporter of the Welsh banding movement, Yori was a welcoming and hard working steward at the Welsh Regional and the CISWO Mineworkers contests, as well as a honorary life member and trustee of the South East Wales Brass Band Association.

In 2013 he was welcomed into the Welsh Regional Council ‘Roll of Honour’ in recognition of his significant contribution to brass bands in Wales.

Yori was a true gentleman in every sense of the word, who worked tirelessly not only for his beloved Ynyshir Band but for Welsh banding in general

True gentleman

The spokesperson added: "Yori was a true gentleman in every sense of the word, who worked tirelessly not only for his beloved Ynyshir Band but for Welsh banding in general.

He will be very sorely missed by everyone, and our thoughts and deepest sympathy go to his wife Megan and son Robert at this sad time."

The funeral arrangements have been made for Thursday 13th February at 1:30pm at the Chapel of Rest, David L Evans & Son Funeral Directors Ltd, Brook Street, Williamstown, Tonypandy CF40 1RE, followed by internment at Trealaw Cemetery.